Fin's Fish Guide
The Middling thread herring (Opisthonema medirastre) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The middling thread herring is a herring-like fish (Alosidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a laterally compressed, silvery body whose last dorsal fin ray is strongly elongated into a thread, characteristic of the thread herrings. It occurs near shore, where it forms large schools. With its fine gill rakers it filters small crustaceans and pteropods from the water. It is an important prey fish and is commercially fished. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Middling thread herring?
The Middling thread herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Greatly elongated last dorsal fin ray as a filament; schooling, filter-feeding prey fish.
Where does the Middling thread herring live?
The Middling thread herring lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; near the coast.
How big does the Middling thread herring get?
The Middling thread herring grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Middling thread herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Middling thread herring is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Middling thread herring edible?
Yes, the Middling thread herring is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opisthonema
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Middling thread herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Middling thread herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.